Aims & Objectives

Pesticides are widely used across many land-based industries, but they can be harmful substances, so it is essential they are handled, applied and stored correctly. This course gives delegates the knowledge and practical experience to use hand held applicators safely and confidently.

It is designed for anyone who uses hand held applicators with a hydraulic nozzle as part of their work, and combines classroom theory, pesticide legislation and key safety issues with hands-on field work.

Suitability

Anyone using, or looking to use, professional pesticide products with hand held applicators in industries such as agriculture, horticulture and forestry.

Requirements

To be eligible you must have already attended a Safe Use of Pesticides course. The length of this course depends on your experience: for a novice it runs over two days.

Syllabus

Understanding Pesticides & the Equipment

• The basics of spray application
• The working principles of a knapsack
• Understanding what pesticides are and their field of use
• Legislation relevant to pesticide application, and interpreting label information

Preparation, Hygiene & PPE

• Hygiene and personal protective equipment
• Preparation of the applicator for work
• Pre-start checks

Nozzles, Calibration & Application

• Nozzles: identifying and selecting nozzles for various applications
• Calibrating a knapsack, including the concentration method
• Achieving the required spray quality
• Mixing, filling and site work, carried out safely and accurately

Decontamination, Storage & the Environment

• Decontamination, tank washing and storage
• Storing and transporting pesticides safely
• Disposing of pesticides and containers safely
• Taking appropriate action to protect yourself and the environment
• Recording information

Notes

The course is a balanced mix of theory and practical field work. Comprehensive notes will be given to all delegates who attend.

Certification

On completion of the course delegates will be issued with a certificate of attendance. Please contact us for details of the certification scheme.